Pankaj Udhas, renowned Indian ghazal singer, dies at 72

Pankaj Udhas, the Indian singer renowned as an exponent of the ghazal form of musical poetry, died in Mumbai after a prolonged illness. He was 72.

Udhas’ daughter Nayaab informed the news. “With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on 26th February 2024 due to a prolonged illness,” she mentioned.

Udhas debuted with ghazal album “Aahat” in 1980. Several hit albums followed, including “Mukarar” (1981), “Tarrannum” (1982) “Mehfil” (1983), “Pankaj Udhas Live at Royal Albert Hall” (1984), the album release of his concert at London’s Royal Albert Hall, “Nayaab” (1985) and “Aafreen” (1986).

In a country where songs from films enjoy primacy, Udhas gained a vast new fan following with the release of Mahesh Bhatt’s hit film “Naam” (1986) where he sang “Chitthi Aayee Hai,” and appeared as himself at a concert set in a Hong Kong auditorium. Hit songs in several Bollywood films followed, including “Dayavan” (1988), “Gawaahi” (1989), “Ghayal” (1990), “Saajan” (1991) and “Mohra” (1994) among many others.

In addition, Udhas composed songs for the Bollywood films “Aurat Pair Ki Juti Nahin Hai” (1985) and “Ek Hi Maqsad” (1988).

In 2006, Udhas was accorded the Padmashree, one of India’s highest civilian honors, for services to the field of ghazal music, and his charitable work.